Dracocephalum moldavica Seeds | Dragonhead
LATIN NAME: Dracocephalum moldavica
COMMON NAME: Dragonhead
Plant Profile
Dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica) grows as a herb in the mint family. Dragonhead spikes whorls of blue-violet flowers up slender, four-angled stems, lemon-scented leaves below, and the whole plant carries the fine, fresh look of the sunny herb bed. It is a plant of open, sunny, light, well-drained ground. Its appeal to pollinating insects adds a second, ecological layer to its ornamental one. Put simply, this is a rewarding species for anyone willing to give it a suitable spot.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the mint family, Dracocephalum moldavica is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The practical point for growers is that this plant has been observed in gardens for so long that its behaviour holds few surprises.
Uses & Benefits
Dragonhead works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Dragonhead is a fresh, useful plant of sunny herb bed and study collection. It is a fresh, useful plant of open, sunny, light, well-drained garden. Dragonhead seeds like a chalky, gritty mix kept lightly moist in full sun. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
Dragonheads are aromatic mint-family ornamentals; moldavian dragonhead yields a lemony essential oil studied for calming and antimicrobial activity, and the flowers make a pleasant tea.
Growing from Seed
Starting Dragonhead from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Dragonhead repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
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